1.
Who wrote the Declaration of Independence?
Correct Answer
C. Thomas Jefferson
Explanation
Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence. As one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, Jefferson was chosen by the Second Continental Congress to draft the document. He drew upon Enlightenment ideals and incorporated concepts of natural rights, popular sovereignty, and the grievances against British rule. Jefferson's eloquent and persuasive writing made the Declaration a powerful statement of American independence and a foundational document for the nation.
2.
The Declaration of Independence guaranteed that God gave the following rights to people
Correct Answer(s)
A. Life
B. Liberty
D. Pursuit of Happines
Explanation
The Declaration of Independence ensured that individuals were entitled to certain rights bestowed upon them by God. These rights include the preservation of one's life, the freedom to exercise one's own choices and actions (liberty), and the pursuit of happiness, allowing individuals to seek personal fulfillment and contentment. The concept of property, although not explicitly mentioned in the given answer, can be understood as encompassed within the broader notion of the pursuit of happiness, as individuals have the right to acquire and possess property as a means to achieve their desired happiness.
3.
The ability of a government to get its power from its citizens in called
Correct Answer
A. Popular sovereignty
Explanation
Popular sovereignty refers to the idea that the power of the government comes from the consent and will of the people. In other words, the citizens have the ultimate authority to govern themselves and make decisions collectively. This principle is often associated with democratic systems of government, where the people have the right to vote and participate in the political process. It emphasizes the importance of citizen participation and the idea that the government should serve the interests of the people.
4.
The colonies first formed body of government was known as
Correct Answer
B. The First Continental Congress
Explanation
The First Continental Congress was the colonies' initial attempt at forming a unified body of government. It was convened in 1774 in response to the Intolerable Acts imposed by the British government. Delegates from twelve of the thirteen colonies met to discuss their grievances and coordinate a response. Although it did not have any real legislative power, the First Continental Congress played a crucial role in fostering unity among the colonies and laying the groundwork for the American Revolution.
5.
What did the King of England do that the colonist hated and felt unfair?
Correct Answer
C. Raise their taxes without their consent
Explanation
The colonists hated and felt unfair when the King of England raised their taxes without their consent. This action infringed upon their rights and autonomy, as they believed that taxation should only be imposed with the consent of the governed. This lack of representation and disregard for their opinions fueled their dissatisfaction and ultimately contributed to their desire for independence from British rule.
6.
The following quote "It is thier right, their duty to throw off such Government" meant
Correct Answer
A. The colonist felt that England and the had abused their power
Explanation
The correct answer is that the colonists felt that England and the government had abused their power. This can be inferred from the quote "It is their right, their duty to throw off such Government," which suggests that the colonists believed that the government had overstepped its boundaries and mistreated its power.
7.
Congress was divided into the Senate and the House of Reprepresntatives as a result of what?
Correct Answer
B. The Great Compromise
Explanation
The correct answer is The Great Compromise. The Great Compromise, also known as the Connecticut Compromise, was a result of the Constitutional Convention in 1787. It resolved the dispute between the states with large populations and those with small populations by creating a bicameral legislature. The Senate would have equal representation for each state, while the House of Representatives would be based on population. This compromise helped to ensure that both large and small states had a voice in the legislative process and was a significant factor in the formation of Congress as we know it today.
8.
Which of the following are powers delegated to Congress in Article I of the Constitution?
Correct Answer
A. Collect taxes
Explanation
The correct answer is "Collect taxes" because Article I of the Constitution grants Congress the power to levy and collect taxes in order to fund the operations of the federal government. This power is essential for Congress to fulfill its responsibilities and carry out its duties effectively.
9.
What is an Ex Post Facto law?
Correct Answer
B. A law that makes an act illegal after it has been done
Explanation
An ex post facto law is a law that retroactively criminalizes an action that was legal when it was committed. This means that the law is enacted after the act has already been done, and it declares the act to be illegal. This type of law is generally considered unfair and is prohibited by many legal systems, as it violates the principle of legality and undermines the predictability and stability of the legal system.
10.
Which of the following pertain to the Senate?
Correct Answer
D. The vice-president is the presiding officer
Explanation
The correct answer is that the vice-president is the presiding officer. In the Senate, the vice-president of the United States serves as the presiding officer. This means that the vice-president is responsible for maintaining order and overseeing the proceedings of the Senate. They have the power to recognize members, put questions to a vote, and cast a tie-breaking vote if necessary. This role highlights the importance of the vice-president in the functioning of the Senate.
11.
What determines the number of representatives in the House of Representatives?
Correct Answer
B. Population
Explanation
The number of representatives in the House of Representatives is determined by the population. Each state is allocated a certain number of representatives based on the size of its population. This ensures that states with larger populations have more representation in the House, while smaller states have fewer representatives. This system helps to ensure that the House is representative of the overall population and allows for fair and proportional representation.
12.
Which of the following pertain to the House of Representatives?
Correct Answer(s)
A. 435 members
C. Two-year terms
D. The Speaker of the House is the presiding officer
Explanation
The House of Representatives is composed of 435 members, each serving a two-year term. The Speaker of the House is the presiding officer in the House of Representatives. The House also has the power to approve or disapprove presidential appointments.
13.
What is the function of the US Constitution?
Correct Answer
B. Provide the basic principles which guide our country's government and laws
Explanation
The US Constitution serves as a framework that establishes the fundamental principles and values upon which the government and laws of the country are based. It outlines the structure of the government, defines the powers and limitations of each branch, and protects the rights and freedoms of the citizens. It sets the foundation for the rule of law, democracy, and the balance of power, ensuring that the government operates in accordance with the principles of justice, equality, and individual rights.
14.
The Constitution states that the United States can do the following (check all that apply)
Correct Answer(s)
A. President and Vice President
B. People elect other people to represent
C. Form a Congress
D. Guarantees the rights and liberties of people
Explanation
The Constitution of the United States outlines the powers and responsibilities of the government. It states that the United States can have a President and Vice President, who are elected by the people. It also allows for the people to elect representatives to represent their interests. The Constitution establishes the formation of a Congress, which consists of the Senate and the House of Representatives. Furthermore, it guarantees the rights and liberties of the people, ensuring that they are protected. However, the Constitution does not explicitly state that it provides education to all citizens.
15.
The US Constitution divides the power of government between two main groups: The national government and the state governments. This is known as
Correct Answer
A. Federalism
Explanation
The US Constitution divides the power of government between the national government and the state governments, which is known as federalism. Federalism is a system where power is shared between a central government and regional governments, allowing for a balance of power and the ability for each level of government to have some degree of autonomy. This division of power helps to prevent any one level of government from becoming too powerful and allows for a more decentralized form of governance.
16.
Which of the following are Concurrent Powers? (Check all that apply)
Correct Answer(s)
A. Declaring War
B. Collecting Taxes
C. Creating Courts
D. Punishing Criminals
Explanation
Concurrent powers are powers that are shared by both the federal government and the state governments in a federal system. They include declaring war, collecting taxes, creating courts, and punishing criminals. These powers are not exclusive to either the federal or state governments, but can be exercised by both. Creating marriage laws, on the other hand, is not a concurrent power as it is typically regulated by state governments rather than the federal government.
17.
Which Amendment quarantees the states Reserved Powers which give states powers not given to the National Government and NOT FORBIDDEN to the states?
Correct Answer
D. Amendment 10
Explanation
Amendment 10 guarantees the states reserved powers, which means that any powers not specifically given to the National Government and not forbidden to the states are reserved for the states. This amendment helps to maintain a balance of power between the federal government and the states, ensuring that states have the authority to govern themselves in areas not explicitly granted to the federal government.
18.
The idea of dividing the government's powers into three branches is known as
Correct Answer
B. Separation of Powers
Explanation
The idea of dividing the government's powers into three branches is known as separation of powers. This concept ensures that power is not concentrated in one branch and helps to prevent abuse of power. Each branch, namely the executive, legislative, and judicial, has its own distinct powers and responsibilities, creating a system of checks and balances. This division of powers helps to maintain the stability and effectiveness of the government by ensuring that no single branch becomes too powerful.
19.
Which of the following are branches of the US government? (check all that apply)
Correct Answer(s)
A. Judicial
B. Executive
E. Legislative
Explanation
The branches of the US government are Judicial, Executive, and Legislative. The Judicial branch is responsible for interpreting the laws and consists of the Supreme Court and other federal courts. The Executive branch is headed by the President and is responsible for enforcing laws and managing the day-to-day operations of the government. The Legislative branch consists of the Congress, which includes the Senate and the House of Representatives, and is responsible for making laws. Economic and Social are not branches of the US government, so they are not correct answers.
20.
The first formal constitution of the United States was
Correct Answer
D. The Articles of Confederation
Explanation
The correct answer is the Articles of Confederation. The Articles of Confederation was the first formal constitution of the United States. It was adopted in 1781 and provided a framework for the government during the American Revolution. However, it had several weaknesses and was eventually replaced by the Constitution in 1789.
21.
The Great Compromise addressed a disagreement among states on
Correct Answer
D. How to create a fair representative government
Explanation
The Great Compromise addressed a disagreement among states on how to create a fair representative government. This compromise was reached during the Constitutional Convention in 1787 and resolved the conflict between large and small states regarding representation in the new government. It proposed a bicameral legislature, with one house based on population (House of Representatives) and the other with equal representation for each state (Senate). This compromise ensured that both large and small states had a voice in the government and helped establish a fair and balanced system of representation.
22.
What are the three main parts of the US Constitution? (check all that apply)
Correct Answer(s)
B. Preamble
C. Articles
E. Amendments
Explanation
The US Constitution consists of three main parts: the Preamble, Articles, and Amendments. The Preamble serves as an introduction and sets the goals and purposes of the Constitution. The Articles establish the framework of the government, including the powers and limitations of each branch. Lastly, the Amendments are additions or changes made to the Constitution over time to address new issues or concerns.
23.
The Bill of Rights are
Correct Answer
B. The first 10 amendments
Explanation
The correct answer is the first 10 amendments. The Bill of Rights refers to the first 10 amendments to the United States Constitution. These amendments were added to the Constitution in 1791 and they outline specific rights and freedoms of individuals, such as freedom of speech, religion, and the right to a fair trial. The Bill of Rights serves as a crucial protection of individual liberties and has played a significant role in shaping American law and society.
24.
The system that balances the powersof the government's three branches is known as
Correct Answer
B. Checks and Balances
Explanation
Checks and Balances is the correct answer because it refers to the system that ensures that no branch of government becomes too powerful by allowing each branch to limit and control the actions of the other branches. This system helps maintain a balance of power and prevents any one branch from becoming dominant or abusing its authority. It allows for a system of checks and balances where each branch can check the actions of the other branches, ensuring that the government operates within its intended limits and protects the rights and interests of the people.
25.
How many judges are there in the Supreme Court
Correct Answer
C. 9
Explanation
There are 9 judges in the Supreme Court.
26.
Which of these groups are employed by the Executive branch?
Correct Answer(s)
A. Post Office
B. IRS
C. FBI
Explanation
The Post Office, IRS, and FBI are employed by the Executive branch because they are all government agencies that fall under the jurisdiction of the President. The Executive branch is responsible for enforcing laws and these agencies play a crucial role in carrying out that responsibility. Judges and Senators, on the other hand, are not employed by the Executive branch. Judges are part of the Judicial branch and Senators are part of the Legislative branch.
27.
What is the role of the Executive branch?
Correct Answer
C. Carry out laws made by Congress
Explanation
The role of the Executive branch is to carry out the laws made by Congress. This branch, headed by the President, is responsible for implementing and enforcing the laws passed by the legislative branch. It ensures that the laws are executed effectively and efficiently, and that the government operates smoothly. The Executive branch also has the authority to issue executive orders and make decisions regarding national security, foreign policy, and other important matters.
28.
What is required for an ammendment to be ratified?
Correct Answer
A. 3/4 of all state legislatures approve it
Explanation
An amendment to be ratified requires the approval of 3/4 of all state legislatures. This means that in order for an amendment to become part of the Constitution, it must be approved by the legislative bodies of at least 38 out of the 50 states. This process ensures that there is widespread support for the amendment among the states before it can be officially ratified. A national vote or the approval of state conventions are not necessary for the ratification of an amendment.
29.
What is the role of the Bill of Rights?
Correct Answer
B. It made clear the rights the government must protect
Explanation
The Bill of Rights is a set of amendments to the Constitution that outlines the fundamental rights and freedoms of individuals. It serves as a clear statement of the rights that the government must protect and respect. It does not encourage government spending, change the original Constitution, or guarantee the right to vote. Its purpose is to ensure that the government does not infringe upon the rights and liberties of its citizens.
30.
Which of these are gauranteed by the First Ammendment?
Correct Answer(s)
A. Freedom of speech
B. Freedom of religion
C. The right to petition the government
Explanation
The First Amendment guarantees the freedom of speech, allowing individuals to express their opinions and ideas without fear of government censorship or punishment. It also guarantees freedom of religion, allowing individuals to practice any religion or no religion at all without interference from the government. Additionally, the First Amendment guarantees the right to petition the government, giving individuals the ability to address grievances and seek redress from the government. However, the right to bear arms is not explicitly guaranteed by the First Amendment, but rather by the Second Amendment.
31.
What ammendments immediately followed the Civil War?
Correct Answer(s)
B. 13th
C. 14th
D. 15th
Explanation
The 13th, 14th, and 15th amendments immediately followed the Civil War. These amendments were crucial in addressing the issues of slavery, citizenship, and voting rights for African Americans. The 13th amendment abolished slavery and involuntary servitude, the 14th amendment granted equal protection under the law and citizenship rights to all individuals born or naturalized in the United States, and the 15th amendment prohibited the denial of voting rights based on race, color, or previous condition of servitude. These amendments played a significant role in the reconstruction of the United States after the Civil War.
32.
What is the relationship between the 18th and 21st Ammendments?
Correct Answer
C. The 21st repealed the 18th
Explanation
The relationship between the 18th and 21st Amendments is that the 21st Amendment repealed the 18th Amendment. The 18th Amendment, also known as Prohibition, banned the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages in the United States. However, the 21st Amendment, ratified in 1933, repealed the 18th Amendment and ended Prohibition, allowing the legal sale and consumption of alcohol once again.
33.
How many ammendments to the Constitution have been ratified?
Correct Answer
C. 27
Explanation
27 amendments to the Constitution have been ratified. The Constitution is a living document that can be amended to reflect the changing needs and values of society. These amendments are additions or changes to the original text of the Constitution. The process of ratifying an amendment requires approval from two-thirds of both houses of Congress and three-fourths of the states. The 27 amendments cover a wide range of topics, including individual rights, voting rights, and the structure of government.
34.
When is the only time a flag should be flown upside down?
Correct Answer
C. To signal an extreme danger of distress
Explanation
Flying a flag upside down is a distress signal used to indicate an extreme danger or distress. It is a recognized symbol to communicate that help is needed urgently. This is a universally understood convention, and it is not meant to convey personal opinions or feelings towards the government or any other individual.
35.
When should a flag be flown outside?
Correct Answer(s)
C. From sunrise to sunset
D. 24 hours a day if properly lit
Explanation
A flag should be flown outside from sunrise to sunset as per proper flag etiquette. However, if the flag is properly lit, it can be flown 24 hours a day. This means that if the flag is illuminated during the night, it can continue to be displayed throughout the night as well.
36.
The right to burn the flag is protected by which ammendment?
Correct Answer
A. 1st
Explanation
The First Amendment of the United States Constitution protects the right to freedom of speech, which includes symbolic expression such as flag burning. This amendment ensures that individuals have the right to express their opinions and ideas, even if they are controversial or offensive to others. Therefore, the correct answer is the 1st Amendment.
37.
What is the major difference(s) between the Illinois Constitution and the US Constitution?
Correct Answer
B. When ammendments are made to the Illinois Constitution they are made to the articles
Explanation
The major difference between the Illinois Constitution and the US Constitution is that when amendments are made to the Illinois Constitution, they are made to the articles. This means that changes or modifications to the Illinois Constitution are made directly to the specific articles within the document. In contrast, amendments to the US Constitution are made through a separate process outlined in Article V, which requires the proposal to be ratified by three-fourths of the states.
38.
What right(s) are included in Article I of the Illinois Constitution?
Correct Answer(s)
A. Many of the rights found in the Bill of Rights
C. The right to not be descriminated against on the basis of sex or pHysical or mental handicaps
39.
What is the right of eminent domain?
Correct Answer
D. The right for the government to purchase private property for public use
Explanation
The right of eminent domain refers to the government's power to acquire private property for public use. This allows the government to purchase land or property from individuals, even against their will, as long as fair compensation is provided. This power is typically exercised for projects such as building roads, schools, or other public infrastructure.
40.
How long does someone need to be a resident of Illinois in order to vote?
Correct Answer
B. 30 days
Explanation
In order to vote in Illinois, a person needs to be a resident for at least 30 days. This means that they must have lived in Illinois for a minimum of 30 days before they are eligible to vote in any elections held in the state.
41.
The General Assembly is the state level equivalence to what in the federal government?
Correct Answer
A. Congress
Explanation
The General Assembly at the state level is equivalent to Congress at the federal level. Congress is the legislative branch of the federal government, responsible for making laws and representing the interests of the people. Similarly, the General Assembly is the legislative body at the state level, consisting of representatives who make laws and govern the state. Both Congress and the General Assembly play a crucial role in the democratic process and ensure that the interests of the people are represented and protected.
42.
How often must the General Assembly redistrict Illinois?
Correct Answer
D. Every ten years
Explanation
The General Assembly must redistrict Illinois every ten years. This is because redistricting is the process of redrawing the boundaries of electoral districts, and it is typically done after each census to ensure that the districts reflect the changes in population. By redistricting every ten years, the General Assembly can ensure that the districts are fairly and accurately represented based on the most recent population data.
43.
Which officials are directly elected by the people of Illinois?
Correct Answer(s)
A. Governor
B. Secretary of State
C. Treasurer
Explanation
In Illinois, the officials who are directly elected by the people are the Governor, Secretary of State, and Treasurer. These positions are important roles in the state government and their election allows the citizens of Illinois to have a direct say in who holds these positions. The Governor is the chief executive of the state, responsible for implementing policies and managing the state's resources. The Secretary of State oversees various administrative functions such as driver's licenses and vehicle registrations. The Treasurer is responsible for managing the state's finances and investments.
44.
What is the major difference(s) in the roles of the governor and the president?
Correct Answer
D. None of these
Explanation
The major difference in the roles of the governor and the president is not mentioned in any of the given options. The governor is the head of the executive branch at the state level, while the president is the head of the executive branch at the federal level. The governor has the power to veto bills, whereas the president has the power to veto legislation passed by Congress. Additionally, the governor can only approve or veto entire bills, while the president can also propose legislation and negotiate treaties. Therefore, the correct answer is None of these.
45.
How many judges are on the Illinois Supreme Court?
Correct Answer
B. 7
Explanation
The correct answer is 7. The Illinois Supreme Court consists of 7 judges. Each judge is elected to a 10-year term and is responsible for making decisions on cases that are appealed from lower courts. The Supreme Court is the highest court in the state of Illinois and has the final authority on interpreting state laws and the Illinois Constitution.
46.
What is gauranteed in Article X of the Illinois Constitution?
Correct Answer
A. Free public school through high school
Explanation
Article X of the Illinois Constitution guarantees free public school through high school. This means that every resident of Illinois has the right to receive education from elementary school through high school without having to pay any tuition fees. This provision ensures that education is accessible to all and helps promote equal opportunities for students in the state.
47.
"Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed" This quote is supporting what important principle of the US Constitution?
Correct Answer
B. Popular Sovereignty
Explanation
The quote "Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed" supports the principle of Popular Sovereignty. This principle states that the power of the government comes from the people, who have the ultimate authority to govern themselves. It emphasizes the idea that the government should be based on the will and consent of the people it governs, ensuring that the government is accountable and responsive to the needs and desires of the citizens.
48.
Which of the following amendments applies to the right of owning weapons?
Correct Answer
B. Second Amendment
Explanation
The Second Amendment applies to the right of owning weapons. It states that "the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed." This amendment is often debated and interpreted differently, with some arguing for stricter gun control measures and others advocating for the protection of individual gun ownership rights. Nonetheless, the Second Amendment is widely recognized as the constitutional basis for the right to own firearms in the United States.
49.
Citizens are protected from government intrusion by the Fourth Amendment. Which of the following applies?
Correct Answer
A. Unreasonable search and siezures
Explanation
The correct answer is "Unreasonable search and seizures." The Fourth Amendment of the United States Constitution protects citizens from government intrusion by prohibiting unreasonable searches and seizures. This means that law enforcement officials cannot search a person's property or seize their belongings without a valid warrant or probable cause. This protection ensures that individuals have a reasonable expectation of privacy and guards against arbitrary government actions. The right to remain silent and the right to a speedy trial are also important constitutional rights, but they are not specifically addressed in the Fourth Amendment.
50.
The best way to insure that the next time you are expected to pass an important test is to do which of the following?
Correct Answer(s)
A. Pay attention in class
B. Ask questions when you don't understand a concept
C. Study your notes
Explanation
The best way to ensure success in passing an important test is to actively engage in the learning process. By paying attention in class, you can absorb the material more effectively. Asking questions when you don't understand a concept helps clarify any confusion and allows for a better understanding. Additionally, studying your notes helps reinforce the information and aids in retention. By actively participating and taking these steps, you increase your chances of performing well on the test.